Thermal Drones
Thermal Drones | Storm Damage Restoration | Roofing
When fierce winds, pounding hail, and driving rain tear through East Tennessee, HEP’s thermal-drone roofing team is ready to reveal the hidden damage that other eyes can’t see. Our FAA-certified pilots fly high-resolution infrared drones across your roof, instantly locating trapped moisture, cracked shingles, and compromised flashing without a single foot ever touching the surface. The result is a precise, data-rich report that speeds up insurance claims, slashes labor costs, and prevents minor leaks from becoming major headaches.
From the first flight to the final shingle, our licensed roofers pair cutting-edge imagery with decades of hands-on craftsmanship to deliver fast, reliable storm damage restoration. We’ll meet your adjuster on-site, advocate for the coverage you deserve, and rebuild your roof with premium materials backed by HEP’s Iron-Clad Warranty. Schedule a free, no-pressure inspection today and see why homeowners across Knoxville trust HEP to transform chaos into confidence—one thermal drone at a time.
FAQs
How do thermal drones help detect storm damage on roofs?
Thermal drones carry high-resolution infrared cameras that measure the surface temperature of roofing materials. Storm-related issues such as moisture intrusion, punctures, missing shingles, and compromised insulation create temperature anomalies—either hotter or cooler than the surrounding roofing surface. By flying the drone over your roof in a systematic grid pattern, we capture hundreds of geo-referenced images that are stitched into a detailed thermographic map. Our certified thermographers analyze this map to pinpoint hidden water infiltration and structural weaknesses that are invisible during a standard visual inspection. This precise, non-invasive method allows us to document storm damage quickly and accurately, reducing the risk of overlooking critical repairs.
What kinds of issues can thermal imaging identify that a visual inspection might miss?
Even an experienced roofer can miss problems concealed beneath shingles or membrane layers. Thermal imaging can reveal: • Trapped moisture where wet insulation retains heat longer after sunset • Delaminated or blistered roofing materials that exhibit hotspots • Small punctures or cracks around fasteners, vents, and flashing • Damaged or missing shingles that create cold spots because of airflow changes • Insulation gaps or compressed insulation caused by hail or wind uplift • Electrical or HVAC heat leaks from rooftop equipment. By detecting these subtler anomalies, thermal drones allow us to recommend targeted repairs rather than full roof replacements, ultimately saving you time and money.
Is a thermal drone inspection safe for my property and roof?
Yes. Unlike traditional inspections that require walking on the roof, the drone remains 20–100 feet above the surface, eliminating the risk of foot-traffic damage or accidental falls. Our pilots are FAA Part 107 certified, carry full liability insurance, and follow strict safety protocols, including establishing no-fly zones around overhead power lines and nearby structures. All imagery is captured with low-noise, battery-powered aircraft that create minimal disturbance to occupants and neighbors. Because no physical contact with the roof is necessary, a thermal drone inspection is one of the safest evaluation methods available today.
Will my insurance company accept thermal drone findings for storm damage claims?
In most cases, yes. The thermographic report you receive includes date-stamped infrared images, corresponding visible-light photos, GPS coordinates, and an interpretive analysis signed by a Level I or II certified thermographer. These elements satisfy the documentation requirements of leading insurers when they investigate storm damage claims. Many adjusters value drone-derived data because it is objective, high-resolution, and gathered without altering the roof’s condition. We can also provide a concise summary and, if requested, meet with your adjuster on-site or virtually to explain the findings, expediting the claim approval process.
How long does a thermal drone roof inspection take, and do I need to be present?
For an average single-family home, on-site flight time is typically 15–30 minutes, while large commercial roofs may require 1–2 hours. Optimal data collection occurs during early morning or late afternoon when temperature differentials are greatest. You do not need to be present, but we recommend it so you can see the process and ask questions in real time. Regardless, you will receive a comprehensive digital report within 24–48 hours, including annotated images and repair recommendations.
What happens after the thermal drone inspection if damage is found?
If we detect storm-related issues, our team will: 1) Review the thermographic report with you and prioritize the affected areas. 2) Provide a written estimate for repairs or, if necessary, a full replacement, complete with a timeline and material options. 3) Assist with insurance claim submission, including supplemental documentation or adjuster meetings. 4) Schedule certified roofing technicians to perform repairs in accordance with manufacturer specifications and local code. 5) Conduct a post-repair drone flight (included in our service) to verify that all thermal anomalies have been resolved. This end-to-end approach ensures you move from diagnosis to restoration swiftly and with full confidence in the integrity of your roof.